Rudy’s dilemma: FIBA-Asia joust and a wedding

Ginebra Fil-Am forward Rudy Hatfield remains hopeful he could play a vital role in the Philippine team’s Olympic quest and may even consider re-scheduling his wedding date which would be held during the week of the FIBA-Asia championship in August in Japan.

"Right now, he’s still with the team. He’s said he’s more than willing to reset his wedding plans," said PBA commissioner Noli Eala. "I don’t think it’s a major problem although there are legal requirements to be settled."

Amid the din and celebration of Ginebra’s championship at the Araneta Coliseum Friday, national coach Chot Reyes approached Hatfield and told him of his inclusion in the national team.

But Hatfield, who left for the United States the following day, has for months made arrangements for his wedding with fiancée Britanny Herr in Ireland in August which is set during the national team’s campaign in the FIBA-Asia event in Tokoshima.

The STAR tried but failed to get in touch with Reyes. But Ginebra coach Jong Uichico said Reyes is to talk to Hatfield to see what arrangement can be done.

"Maybe, Rudy can move his wedding date a few days later. It can’t be done earlier than the FIBA-Asia championship because the RP team is in training then," said Uichico.

Uichico said the problem is that Hatfield has made arrangements, handed down payments and sent out invitations to friends and relatives.

"There may be some flight reservations because it will be held in Ireland," said Uichico. "I am sure there will be no problem with Rudy but there are other people involved, including his fiancee."

The Ginebra forward has set the wedding in August so as not to disrupt his schedule with Barangay Ginebra in the PBA, not knowing he would be tapped to play for the Nationals in a major tournament.

Eala, however, said the national coaching staff is prepared to make the adjustment if Hatfield is not available. – Nelson Beltran